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Google’s Chromecast streaming stick is to receive an update allowing it to pair with smartphones and tablets using ultrasonic frequencies.
The feature will be added in addition to conventional PIN-based pairing, in order to let users who aren’t connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the Chromecast share video content to it.
Using the ultrasonic pairing, any user in the vicinity of the Chromecast can select the ‘Cast’ option in compatible apps, as with a Wi-Fi connected device.
The technology is designed to remove the awkward requirement to share Wi-Fi passwords to connect multiple devices to the Chromecast.
The Chromecast will then emit a unique ultrasonic noise, inaudible to human ears, through the connected TV’s speakers, which will be picked up and recognised by the mobile device.
The ultrasonic functionality will be added in a future update to the streaming dongle, with support for customisable home screens – including personal pictures, weather information and news – also set to be added.
The new additions to the highly popular device were announced as part of Google’s annual I/O developer conference – read more about the biggest announcements from the event here
